Discuss the importance of participatory rural appraisal.
Answers
Target group’s real priorities are identified
In PRA, the target group i.e. local people are asked about the immediate problems, that they are facing. The outsiders do not impose their own solutions on these problems; rather they explore the solutions with the local people in which they are really interested.
Delegation of responsibilities
PRA encourages self-reliant development with most of the responsibilities to manage and execute the developmental activities done by local people. This creates a sense of ownership and enthusiasm among the local people and thus the efficiency to achieve the goal also increases.
Motivation of local development workers
The local development workers of non-governmental organizations, government or other agencies, who are involved in the developmental projects or programmes, get motivated through their participation in PRA activities, by knowing the grass-root level problems and priorities of the people. PRA helps to ensure better understanding and commitment of local workers; in return people at administrative and organizational levels also become aware about the requirements and priorities of workers and community.